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Friday, June 17, 2011

Historical fiction can drive you crazy

And here's one good reason why:
You write your fiction based on facts. You create monster spreadsheets, track everything, check source after source.
Then you colour in the blank spaces, add a little depth or perspective here and there. You are scrupulous about keeping track of known facts and fictional embellishments.
And then you find another - impeccable - source which contradicts any number of previous "facts", which means either you have to:
1. Change everything
2. Act like you meant that sub-plot to be fictional all along
or most likely
3. Shout a bit. Or a lot.

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About Me

Kelly Gardiner's latest book is Goddess, a novel based on the remarkable life of Julie d'Aubigny (Mademoiselle de Maupin). Her previous books include the young adult novels 'The Sultan's Eyes' and 'Act of Faith' (HarperCollins). Her children's books include 'Billabong Bill's Bushfire Christmas' (Random House) and the ‘Swashbuckler!’ trilogy (HarperCollins): 'Ocean Without End', 'The Pirate's Revenge' and 'The Silver Swan'. Kelly is a professional writer and editor with many years experience in print and on the web, and teaches writing and digital media. She lives in Melbourne, Australia. (This is my personal profile, and my opinions are not necessarily those of my publishers, university or employer.)